Ironically, this week 17 years ago I came into the Security industry when I joined Express Security, later to become Synergy Security Solutions. Prior to that, I was a trainee youth worker with my local youth group on the North side of the Cork City, so I didn’t have any experience in the Security industry at the time. Through the youth group, I heard that Express/Synergy were looking for people so I took the chance on applying as I was looking for a change at that time and I felt that this may be a good opportunity for me.

How long have you been working with Synergy and what attracted you to the company.

I joined the company in 2006 having heard that the company were looking for new people and I was told that there may be opportunities for interested and interesting candidates. What attracted me to the industry was the fact that my older brother was already involved in the industry which of course generated an interest in me, as I heard him constantly on about what he was doing. The other thing was money of course as there were full time roles on offer.

How has your experience with the company been since you started?

Over the years I have worked on numerous different contracts both industrial and retail. All in all it has been a roller coaster of a ride. I have met some outstanding managers from whom I have learned a great deal about the industry. I have also worked with some amazing colleagues whom have become lifelong friends. It has been a great experience for me throughout the years, proven by the fact that I am still here 17 years later.

How has your role progressed since joining Synergy?

For the first few years I worked as a basic Security Officer, mostly on commercial sites, including a medical facility. During the early years I assumed responsibilities by virtue of the fact that I had long service. About 6 years ago I was offered a post at my current site. I took up the post working on a gatehouse. After 2 years I was offered a different position on site doing internal patrols etc, which I jumped at. 2 years after that I was offered a post in the Control room which again I accepted, knowing that I had the tools and Management support to do the job. A further opportunity for progression arose and I applied for the position of Team Leader. Thankfully I was successful in my application. With the support that I received from my colleagues and the constant mentoring from my Manager, I believe that I am and will continue to be an important asset to both Synergy and the client.

How would you describe your team?

To coin a phrase ‘there’s no I in team’. I don’t see them as my team, I see them as our team. I don’t want to sound corny but yes, ‘one Synergy team’. 

Each and every one of the team has specific tasks to perform on a daily basis. All bar none takes pride in what they do and they do it well. This can be seen in the quality of Security and customer service that we provide to the client on behalf of Synergy. 

Reliability and dependability are key to a successful team and again this team has a proven track record in supporting the Client, their Manager and me as their team Lead. There is a constant willingness to step up to the mark when required and nothing is too much for them to do.

What are your responsibilities as a Team Leader?

Life safety and the protection of client premises are paramount in my role as Team Leader. With this in mind, it is vital that I develop the team by training, mentoring and encouraging team members to become exemplary in the performance of their duties. On a day-to-day basis I monitor how the team performs from the time they start to the time that they finish. This not only relates to Security functions but also how an officer presents themselves for work each day and how they treat both their colleagues and client employees.

In my role, communication is one of my main tools. Not only do I meet each of the team throughout the day but I also liaise with my Manager and Client Management both verbally and via email. 

What do you think is the most interesting element of your role?

For me I think it is the variation of functions throughout the week. No day is the same and this keeps my interest up all the times. With such a large contract there are always new staff coming on site. There is nothing more satisfying then looking at a new Officer successfully completing their duties, knowing that I have been instrumental in their success through my support, training and encouragement.

Do you feel that your work and efforts have been recognised? If so, How?

I suppose really my work and efforts have been recognise in a number of ways. Obviously the site Manager recognised that I had the ability to progress within the team and supported my transition through each role. In addition to this I have receive a ‘site quarterly recognition award’ and also been recognised and rewarded through our Synergy Qarrot reward scheme.

What advice would you provide to someone interested in joining the Security Industry.

I have a good life and make a decent living out of the Security industry, particularly with Synergy. My advice to anyone coming into the industry is to take your role seriously, ask questions, learn as much as you can from your trainer and your colleagues. Strive for perfection in what you do as it will be recognised and rewarded. You must realise that we have a diverse workforce as does our clients so treat everyone with respect.